Pictured L to R: ICOY CEO, Andrea Durbin, Illinois State Rep, Suzanne Ness, Illinois State Rep, Mary Beth Canty, Shelter CEO, Carina H. Santa Maria

Arlington Heights, IL — November 10, 2025— Shelter Youth & Family Services was honored to host the Illinois Collaboration on Youth (ICOY) for the presentation of the Champion of Youth Award to State Representatives Mary Beth Canty and Suzanne Ness in recognition of their outstanding commitment to supporting children, youth, and families across Illinois.

The award ceremony and luncheon took place at Shelter’s Buckholz Emergency Shelter at 12:30 p.m. on November 7, 2025.

The Champion of Youth Award recognizes state leaders who have demonstrated exceptional advocacy for programs and policies that advance the well-being, safety, and future success of young people. Representatives Canty and Ness have been tireless advocates for youth services, behavioral health, and equitable access to essential supports for families.

“We are thrilled to recognize Representatives Canty and Ness for their leadership and commitment to the youth of Illinois,” said Andrea Durbin, CEO of ICOY. “Their advocacy reflects a deep understanding that investing in prevention, care, and opportunity for young people not only changes lives, it strengthens communities statewide.”

“It is a privilege to host this celebration at Shelter,” said Carina Santa Maria, CEO of Shelter Youth & Family Services. “Our work depends on strong partnerships with leaders who share our vision of protecting children, strengthening families, and transforming communities. Representatives Canty and Ness exemplify what it means to be champions for youth.”

Shelter Youth & Family Services has provided critical support to youth and families in crisis for more than five decades, offering emergency shelter, foster care, counseling, transitional living, and community-based programs. The organization is proud to join ICOY in recognizing public servants who make this vital work possible.

For media inquiries or further information, please contact Christine Roerig, PCM, Director, Marketing and Communications, 847-595-0131 or croerig@www.shelter-inc.org.

About ICOY
ICOY champions the safety, well-being, and success of all Illinois’ children, youth, and families by connecting and strengthening the organizations that serve them and by being a collective voice for policy and practice. 

About Shelter Youth & Family Services
Founded in 1975, Shelter is a Chicagoland leader in delivering emotional and physical care to youth in crisis. Shelter provides emergency housing, transitional living, foster care, home visiting, and clinical support services. Shelter is the only agency in Illinois offering such a comprehensive, community-based continuum of care for at-risk children and families. Learn more at www.shelter-inc.org.

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